<p>I know math 55a is a proof based course for linear algebra and group theory. How applicable are these for advanced economics? I heard math 55b (real/complex analysis) is used more in econ than 55a, is that true?)</p>
<p>You can’t take 55b without taking 55a, and neither is needed for econ.</p>
<p>i think 55 is for 100% hardcore math people; not aimed at economics concentrators</p>
<p>If your interest is in econ you will suffer in 55. Applied is no where in the title or description. You might enjoy 25 though, alot less work I hear, though still top of the line students.</p>
<p>A lot of beastly math kids (55ers) take Ec 1011a/b (especially when Glazer taught it). But the vast majority of Ec 1011a/b kids (the self-selected math heavy Ec concentrators) have a background at the level of 21a/b (although a fair chunk probably took 23).</p>
<p>Linear algebra is important for several areas in economics, real analysis is important for economic theory. Neither group theory nor complex analysis are used much.
You can learn enough real analysis and linear algebra either by taking Math 25 or 23+112+121.</p>
<p>taking 55a for applied economics is like studying rocket science to fold a paper airplane</p>